A Denver police officer has asked the city's ethics board whether it's appropriate for President Barack Obama to promote his gun control proposals Wednesday at the department's training facility, saying it creates the impression that Denver police support Colorado's recently passed gun-control laws.

Danny Veith, a technician and 18-year-veteran, said he and several officers have discussed the situation with each other and on social media.

"My concern is our police department is being used as a vehicle for partisan political influence," Veith said.

Denver Board of Ethicsdirector Michael Henry thanked Veith for his "very valid and interesting questions and concerns" but pointed out in an e-mail that the board doesn't meet until April 18. Veith said he plans to ask for an advisory opinion at that time.

"If they want to attend, we're going to try to find a way for them to attend," the chief said. "If they don't want to go, that's perfectly fine also."

Advertisement

White said the department accommodated the White House's request for the use of a police facility but would not say whether officials asked for a certain number of officers to be present. White said police from other departments would be on hand, as well.

"It is the president. This puts our department, our city, our state on a national level. It gives us some positive exposure," White said.

But Veith said is he concerned the event violates police protocol on political events, which is why he contacted the Denver Board of Ethics. The department's operating manual has an entire section called "Political Activities by Denver Police Officers."

Part of that section reads: "Except for the exercise of such fundamental rights as voting, attending political meetings and membership in political clubs and organizations, officers are advised to obtain an advisory opinion from the Denver Board of Ethics prior to engaging in political activity."

The section also states that certain political activities are prohibited by federal law.